Adam Yauch, one-third of the pioneering hip-hop group the Beastie Boys, has died at the age of 48, Rolling Stone has learned. Yauch, also known as MCA, had been in treatment for cancer since 2009. The rapper was diagnosed in 2009 after discovering a tumor in his salivary gland.

This was the worst thing to wake up to. I've been such a fan of the Beasties for years and I would have given anything to see them one more time. Every Beastie Boys album has been a constant highlight in my music collection - Ill Communication was a massive part of my developing love for hip hop. I honestly can't tell you just how much the Beasties mean to me hey.

First celebrity death in some time where I've actually felt genuine remorse and respect for the man. RIP. Fantastic musician in every sense of the word and an even better person. The people of Tibet are richer for having his support.